Reward offered in shooting of cop

CHICAGO — A $6,000 reward is being offered for information leading to the arrest of two men who shot an off-duty Chicago police officer Aug. 23 in an attempted robbery, police announced Friday.

The United States Marshals Service put forth $5,000 and the Cook County Crime Stoppers has pledged $1,000 for information about the man who wounded Officer Andre Watkins outside a pizza parlor in the 1400 block of East 47th Street at about 10:30 p.m.

A narcotics and gang specialist, Watkins has been a police officer for 18 years, working for the Wentworth, South Chicago and Calumet districts.

A police spokesman said Watkins ran outside the pizza parlor when he heard a fight and attempted robbery. After Watkins identified himself as a police officer and drew his weapon, one of the gunmen opened fire and struck him. When Watkins tried to return fire, his weapon jammed and the two men ran away.

Police Commander Charles Williams said Watkins has recovered and is in good condition. He praised Watkins.

"He was doing what police officers do all the time--coming to the aid of someone who needs our assistance," Williams said.

Anyone with information about the shooting is urged to call the Crime Stoppers hot line at 1-800-533-STOP. Callers may remain anonymous.